Protocol and Etiquette

As I read it I was reminded of some other things I have been reading of late on Fetlife.

It seems that the occurrence of people stepping into other peoples scenes at Dungeons is becoming more and more common place.

Along with that is it seems that there are some who feel that because a person is submissive be it male or female that it is alright for them to be approached and even touched.
One sub on Fetlife talked about how after a scene people would approach her and begin poking and prodding her bruises.
Others talked about how because they were playing in public that made them appear to be open to play with anyone that comes along.

Many people do enjoy public play, this does not mean they are there to play with anyone that comes along.
Even when playing in public they are playing with someone they know and trust.

When observing a public scene never ever interrupt what is going on.
The Dom is focused on the sub and what is going on between the two of them.The sub is most likely in sub-space and is focusing on their Dom.
Interrupting is not only rude but dangerous.

When I attended my first Munch I was met by a “greeter”
This person was there to not only make new people feel welcome and comfortable; but to also instruct them on the basic protocols and etiquette of the Munch/event.
At the local Dungeon there are DM’s (Dungeon Monitors)
Their function is to assist people playing in keeping people away and not bothering them.

Even if someone manages to slip by the DM’s are there to be informed of any behavior that is out of line and then act on it.

Since the release of 50 Shades, more people then ever before are curious about the lifestyle.
One local Dungeon has a program that you must attend before you are granted admittance to the club.
Just because a sub likes public play doesn’t mean she is there for just anyone to walk up to and touch or engage in play.
Just because he/she is submissive does not mean they are your sub and does not mean they are there for your use.

Respect the other person, respect their space, respect their play space.
If you don’t know the protocol or etiquette for a function ask, there is no shame in it.